Health and Safety in Welding: Confined Spaces and Fire Risks

What is a confined space?

A fully or partially enclosed space not designed for continuous human occupancy, with limited access, and potential atmospheric hazards.

What are the atmospheric hazards in confined spaces?

1. Oxygen deficient atmosphere (less than 19.5%) 2. Oxygen enriched atmosphere (greater than 21%) 3. Flammable atmosphere 4. Toxic atmosphere.

What are some other hazards associated with confined spaces?

1. Location of entry and exit points 2. Working surfaces 3. Noise and vibrations 4. Temperature 5. Residual chemicals 6. Hazardous animals and insects 7. Ventilation systems.

What precautions should be taken before entering a confined space?

1. Be formally trained for confined space work 2. Review work procedures 3. Pre-check for hazards 4. Isolate or disable hazardous systems 5. Follow tagging and lock-out procedures 6. Inspect electrical and gas hoses 7. Ensure space is vented and has clean air.

What should workers be aware of when working in a confined space?

1. Nearest exit point 2. Location of hoses and tools 3. Condition of working surfaces.

What is the procedure for using a torch in a confined space?

Always light the torch outside the space and have someone hand it to you once inside, ensuring pressures are regulated.

What should be done if environmental levels in a confined space are too high?

The space should be immediately evacuated.

What is the importance of following regulations when working in confined spaces?

To ensure safety and compliance with federal, provincial, or territorial regulations.

What should be done with cylinders while working in a confined space?

All cylinders should be kept outside the space at all times.

What is the role of a standby observer when working in confined spaces?

To ensure safety and assist in case of an emergency.

What should be done if proper ventilation is not possible in a confined space?

Workers should be provided with appropriate breathing apparatus.

What are the potential causes of an oxygen enriched atmosphere?

Usually caused by equipment failure or malfunction.

What is the minimum oxygen level considered safe in a confined space?

At least 19.5% oxygen.

What factors can complicate first aid, evacuation, and rescue in confined spaces?

Limited or restricted access, and internal configurations.

What should be inspected before entering a confined space?

Electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic, and steam systems or components.

What is the significance of lock-out and tag-out procedures?

To prevent accidental operation of equipment that could pose hazards during confined space work.

What types of training are required for workers entering confined spaces?

Formal training specific to confined space work.

What is the recommended action if residual materials or liquids are found in a confined space?

They should be checked for hazards before entry.

What is the purpose of ongoing monitoring in a confined space?

To ensure environmental safety and detect hazardous conditions.

What should be done if a confined space has residual chemicals?

Assess the hazards before entering and take necessary precautions.

How can noise and vibrations affect work in confined spaces?

They can create additional hazards and complicate communication and safety.

What are the roles and responsibilities of workers in confined space entry?

Workers must be trained and follow confined space procedures.

What is the supervisor's responsibility regarding confined space procedures?

The supervisor ensures workers are trained, allows only trained workers into confined spaces, meets all requirements before entry, and coordinates work activities.

What is the role of a CPR/First Responder in confined spaces?

The CPR/First Responder administers first aid and CPR.

What is the function of a Stand By Observer during confined space work?

The Stand By Observer remains outside the confined space, monitors and communicates with workers inside, calls and may direct the rescue team, and is authorized to test for hazardous gases.

What should you never do in case of a rescue situation in a confined space?

Never enter a confined area to rescue personnel overcome by fumes or lack of oxygen unless you are specially trained and certified.

What are the minimum requirements for a confined space procedure?

The procedure must address recognition of confined spaces, hazard assessment, worker training, recording names and numbers of workers, duties and responsibilities, on-site rescue plans, personal protective equipment, isolation of energy sources, entry and exit methods, atmospheric testing, ventilation, coordination of work, fire clearances, and communication methods.

What should be done after completing a job in a confined space?

Account for all personnel, address area clean-up, ensure safety locks are removed, and prepare the area for normal operation.

What is the purpose of lockout/tagout procedures?

Lockout/tagout procedures de-energize or isolate energy sources to prevent machinery from operating and identify the person who attached the lock.

What must each worker receive regarding lockout/tagout procedures?

Each worker must be issued a safety lock or locks to lock out required energy sources.

What should a safety lock include?

A safety lock should have a tag identifying its owner and any other required identification.

What is the responsibility of employers regarding lockout/tagout procedures?

Employers must establish and implement written lockout/tagout procedures in compliance with regulations.

What must be done to machinery and equipment before servicing?

Machinery and equipment must be locked out and tagged, and any stored energy must be released or controlled.

What should be done to ensure safety during confined space work?

A method for assessing hazards and a rescue plan must be established.

What is the role of atmospheric testing in confined spaces?

Atmospheric testing is conducted to ensure the environment is safe for workers.

What is the importance of personal protective equipment in confined spaces?

Personal protective equipment is required to ensure the safety of workers in confined spaces.

What does the isolation of energy sources involve?

It involves de-energizing or isolating power sources to prevent accidental operation.

What is the significance of communication methods in confined spaces?

Effective communication methods are crucial for coordinating work and ensuring safety among all personnel involved.

What should be included in the on-site rescue plan for confined spaces?

The on-site rescue plan should include procedures and equipment for safely rescuing workers.

What is the purpose of ventilation and purging in confined spaces?

Ventilation and purging are used to ensure that the atmosphere is safe by removing hazardous gases.

What are fire clearances in the context of confined spaces?

Fire clearances are checks to ensure that the area is free from fire hazards before work begins.

What is the role of training in confined space procedures?

Training enables workers to work safely in confined spaces and understand the associated risks.

How should the names and number of workers in a confined space be recorded?

There should be a method in place to record the names and number of workers entering the confined space.

What must be done to machinery and equipment before working in confined spaces?

Machinery and equipment must be locked out and tagged, and any stored energy released or controlled.

What precautions should be taken regarding electrical hazards in confined spaces?

Electrical components must be locked out and tagged, as many confined spaces are metal structures that conduct electricity.

What is required for tanks and piping systems before entering confined spaces?

They must be locked out, blanked, or purged to ensure no leakage into a work area.

What safety measures should be followed when using ladders and scaffolds?

Check for defects, employ fall protection over three metres or ten feet, ensure the ladder extends at least 0.9 metres (3 feet) from the landing, and avoid power lines.

What is the maximum height for which fall protection must be employed when using ladders?

Fall protection must be employed when working at heights over three metres (10 feet).

What should be ensured about the ladder's position before use?

The ladder should be on a firm base, secured at the top and bottom against accidental movement.

What is the recommended number of people allowed to work on a ladder at one time?

Only one person at a time may work on a ladder.

What should be done with work boots before using a ladder?

Ensure work boots are free of mud, grease, and snow.

What is the three points of contact rule when using a ladder?

Maintain three points of contact at all times when working from a ladder.

What should not be used as substitutes for scaffold planks or runways?

Ladders should not be used as substitutes for scaffold planks or runways.

What is the proper ratio for positioning a ladder against a fixed structure?

There should be a four to one ratio of height to base when setting the ladder in the vertical position.

How far should the top of the ladder extend above the structure?

The top of the ladder should extend 0.9 m (3 feet) above the top of the structure.

What is required when working at heights with platforms, openings, or cuttings?

Guardrails and/or handrails must be constructed and maintained where a fall hazard of 1.22 m (4 ft) or more is present.

What are the advantages of portable tubular scaffolding?

Light weight construction, portability, high strength, and ease of assembly and disassembly.

What are the requirements for scaffold planks?

Scaffold planks must be free of defects, wooden planks must be at least 2 in × 10 in, and must not extend less than 6 in or more than 12 in beyond the supporting member.

How many planks are required at any level of scaffolding?

A minimum of two planks are required at any level.

What should be done with scaffolding before use?

Scaffolding must be inspected daily and maintained as required.

What is the minimum height for the top rail of a scaffold?

The top rail should be installed at a height of 1 m (40 in) above the platform.

What is the minimum height for toe boards where hazards exist?

Toe boards must be installed at a minimum height of 100 mm (4 in).

When is personal fall protection generally needed?

Fall protection is generally needed when working 3 m (10 ft) or more above a lower level.

Who should check the components needed for fall protection?

All components needed for fall protection should be checked by a qualified person before each use.

What should be done with equipment showing signs of damage or inadequate ratings?

It should be replaced with equipment that meets or exceeds the system requirements.

What are the precautions to apply before using personal fall protection equipment?

Examine equipment for defects, ensure harness is properly fitted, use manufactured lanyards, ensure anchor points are structurally adequate, and have a rescue plan.

What are the four critical parts of fall protection used with appropriate PPE?

Fall Restraint Systems, Fall Arrest Systems, Harnesses and Restraints, Lifelines and Anchoring.

What is the purpose of Fall Restraint Systems?

To keep workers from falling over unprotected edges.

What is the purpose of Fall Arrest Systems?

To stop the worker from hitting an object if they fall.

What is the maximum force that restraint equipment should withstand?

350 kg (800 lbs), or four times the weight of the person using it.

Where should anchor points for fall restraint systems be located?

In the center of the work area and positioned 90 degrees from any unprotected edges.

What components are included in a Fall Arrest System?

An approved harness, D-ring, lifeline, lanyard, shock absorber, rope grab, and anchor.

What should be done with a fall arrest system that has stopped a fall?

It should be removed from service until inspected by the manufacturer and recertified for use.

What is critical about the sizing and fit of a harness?

Chest straps should be snug and fall towards the middle of the chest, and leg straps should have no more than a 3-4 inch gap between the strap and the legs.

What materials are lanyards typically manufactured from?

Wire rope, synthetic fibre, or synthetic webbing.

What should never be done to commercial manufactured lanyards?

They should never be modified in any way, including knotting or cutting to reduce length.

What is the function of a shock absorber in a fall arrest system?

To deploy during a fall, reducing the force of impact.

How is a shock absorber typically connected in a fall arrest system?

It is connected directly to the D-ring on the harness.

What should be checked when inspecting a shock absorber?

Look for signs of use and tearing.

What is the goal of a well-planned fall restraint setup?

To provide the same level of protection across the whole work area being protected.

What must the anchor in a fall arrest system provide?

Adequate fixed support.

What should the length of the lifeline in a fall arrest system be adjusted for?

To ensure that any potential fall will not result in contact with the ground or other obstructions.

What is the importance of the full body harness in fall protection systems?

It is a key component that must be correctly chosen, inspected, and worn as per manufacturer's specifications.

What should be avoided when using lanyards?

They should be kept away from sharp objects, rough surfaces, and not exposed to chemicals or direct sunlight for prolonged periods.

What happens to a shock absorber during a fall?

It rips open to deploy and absorb the shock.

What is the role of lifelines and anchoring in fall protection?

They serve as the connection between workers and the structure they are working on.

What should be done if the indicator on a shock absorber pouch is torn or missing?

The unit should be replaced immediately.

What are the common types of connecting devices used in fall protection systems?

Locking snap hooks, D-clips, carabiners, and rope grabs.

What is the function of the locking mechanism in connecting devices like snap hooks and carabiners?

It prevents the accidental release of the rope they are attached to.

What must be considered when using a rope grab with a lifeline?

The rope grab must be matched to the specific type, length, and diameter of the rope, and it is directional, working only in one direction.

What should be inspected on a rope grab before use?

Bends, deformation, cracking, dents, rust, and any signs of wear and metal fatigue.

What is 'bottoming out' in the context of fall protection?

It occurs when the length of your restraint exceeds the distance to the nearest level or large object below you.

How can the risk of bottoming out be avoided?

By carefully planning and checking the maximum length of restraints prior to use and adjusting for changing conditions.

What are the three basic types of anchoring systems used for fall protection?

Designed fixed supports, temporary fixed supports, and existing structural features.

What are designed fixed supports?

Anchor points that are pre-engineered, load-rated, and permanently installed for fall protection purposes.

What is the load capacity requirement for a temporary fixed support used to anchor a fall-restraint system?

It must have an ultimate load capacity in any direction of 350 kg (800 lb) or four times the weight of the person using it.

What is the load capacity requirement for a temporary fixed support used to anchor a fall-arrest system?

It must have an ultimate load capacity in any direction of 2,200 kg (5,000 lb) or twice the maximum arrest force.

What are existing structural features in the context of anchoring systems?

Structural elements not specifically intended for anchoring but deemed suitable for the intended purpose and loads by a qualified person or Engineer.

What should be avoided when anchoring to existing structural features?

Corners or edges that could abrade, chafe, cut, or deform any equipment or lines attached.

What is the purpose of temporary anchor points?

To be connected to an existing structure and installed using specific manufacturer's installation instructions.